Cutting Insert and Tool Having an Anti-Slip Arrangement

ABSTRACT

A cutting tool and a cutting insert each include a base surface and an anti-slip arrangement. Each anti-slip arrangement includes an actuator surface and non-parallel first and second abutment surfaces, and the actuator surface of the cutting tool is a surface of a clamp of the cutting tool. The cutting insert is mounted on the cutting tool via engagement of the base surfaces thereof and the clamp is operable to bias the actuator surfaces against each other and thereby force the first and second abutment surfaces against each other, for preventing slippage of the cutting insert along the tool&#39;s base surface.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The subject matter of the present application relates to cutting inserts and tools for holding same, in particular cutting inserts and tools designed for metal-working machines. More specifically, the application relates to a construction and/or method relating to prevention of slippage of a cutting insert mounted on a tool.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Precise positioning of a cutting insert in a tool can allow for high precision cutting. However, cutting inserts are often subjected to high forces during cutting operations which can cause displacement or change of orientation of the cutting insert in a tool which hold them.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,536,996 discloses a cutting tool comprising a tool body and two cutting inserts mounted therein. An insert receiving pocket of the tool body has a pocket base wall. An indentation that opens to the pocket base wall has a lower wall that is bounded by first, second, third and fourth side walls. The cutting insert has an insert base wall. A protuberance extends downwards from the insert base wall and has a lower wall bounded by first, second, third and fourth lateral walls. The insert base wall abuts the pocket base wall, the first lateral wall abuts the first side wall, the third lateral wall abuts the third side wall, the first lateral wall is distanced from a center line by a first distance, the cutting edge close to the center line is distanced therefrom by a second distance where the first distance is at least three times greater than the second distance and where a relief surface of the cutting insert is relieved from the insert receiving pocket.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The subject matter of the present invention relates to, inter alia, an anti-slip arrangement for maintaining a precise mounted operative position of a cutting insert in a tool.

Such arrangement may be particularly beneficial for rotating tools and in particular high-speed rotating tools, which are subjected to high cutting forces. High-speed tools can be defined as those which are configured for operation in which a friction lock is insufficient to withstand centrifugal forces during rotation. Further elaboration can be found in ISO 15641.

Such arrangements could also be particularly beneficial for lateral cutting operations (including, for example, ramp-down operations), even at lower speeds, in which cutting inserts can tend to be subjected to high displacement forces.

In accordance with a first aspect of the subject matter of the present application, there is provided a method of clamping a cutting insert to a tool or, stated differently, securing a cutting insert against slippage in an operative position on a tool.

The method comprises mounting the cutting insert on the tool in a position in which an insert base surface contacts a tool base surface, and biasing a clamp's tool actuator surface against an insert actuator surface to thereby force non-parallel first and second insert abutment surfaces respectively against non-parallel first and second tool abutment surfaces.

Abutment of the base surfaces and abutment surfaces can be configured to prevent slippage of the cutting insert along the tool base surface.

For the purposes of the specification and claims, slippage of the cutting insert along the tool base surface can include rotational and/or translational motion. In preferred embodiments the slippage could be visible slippage, i.e. there could be sufficient constructional tolerance of the tool and/or cutting insert to allow visible relative motion thereof, which could allow the clamp to suitably position the cutting insert. However, the slippage could also be non-visible slippage, i.e. extremely small, such that it is not visible without magnification, but which can occur during cutting operations.

More precisely, the method can comprise: the tool comprising an insert seating region comprising a tool base surface, tool inner and peripheral regions located on opposing sides of the insert seating region, and a tool anti-slip arrangement; the tool anti-slip arrangement comprising first and second tool abutment surfaces formed adjacent to the tool base surface and being non-parallel to each other and to the tool base surface, and a clamp located at the tool inner region and comprising a tool actuator surface which is oriented transverse to the tool base surface; the cutting insert comprising opposing insert top and base surfaces which are connected by an insert peripheral surface, at least one cutting edge, and an insert anti-slip arrangement formed adjacent to the insert base surface; the insert anti-slip arrangement comprising first and second insert abutment surfaces which are non-parallel to each other and to the insert base surface, and an insert actuator surface which is oriented transverse to the insert base surface; wherein the method comprises:

-   a. mounting the cutting insert on the tool in a position in which     the insert base surface contacts the tool base surface; and -   b. biasing the clamp's tool actuator surface against the insert     actuator surface, thereby biasing the first and second insert     abutment surfaces respectively against the first and second tool     abutment surfaces for preventing slippage of the cutting insert     along the tool base surface.

In accordance with another aspect of the subject matter of the present application, there is provided a tool assembly. The tool assembly can be configured for application of the methods detailed in the first aspect. The cutting insert and the tool can be configured such that the insert base surface contacts the tool base surface and the clamp is configured to bias the tool actuator surface against the insert actuator surface. Such biasing can consequently bias the first and second insert abutment surfaces against the first and second tool abutment surfaces. This arrangement can prevent slippage of the cutting insert along the tool base surface.

More precisely, the tool assembly can comprise in combination a tool configured for cutting in a cutting direction and a cutting insert mounted to the tool: the tool comprising an insert seating region comprising a tool base surface, tool inner and peripheral regions located on opposing sides of the insert seating region, the cutting direction being defined as extending from the tool inner region towards the tool peripheral region, and a tool anti-slip arrangement; the tool anti-slip arrangement comprising first and second tool abutment surfaces formed adjacent to the tool base surface and being non-parallel to each other and to the tool base surface, and a clamp located at the tool inner region and comprising a tool actuator surface which is oriented transverse to the tool base surface; the cutting insert comprising opposing insert top and base surfaces which are connected by an insert peripheral surface, at least one cutting edge, and an insert anti-slip arrangement formed adjacent to the insert base surface the insert anti-slip arrangement comprising first and second insert abutment surfaces which are non-parallel to each other and to the insert base surface, and an insert actuator surface which is oriented transverse to the insert base surface; wherein: the cutting insert and the tool are configured for a position in which the insert base surface contacts the tool base surface; and the clamp is configured to bias the tool actuator surface against the insert actuator surface which consequently biases the first and second insert abutment surfaces against the first and second tool abutment surfaces for preventing slippage of the cutting insert along the tool base surface.

In accordance with still another aspect of the subject matter of the present application, there is provided a cutting insert comprising first and second insert abutment surfaces which are non-parallel to each other and an insert actuator surface, which are together configured for positioning of the insert in a tool. The cutting insert can be configured for use in the tool assembly or in application of the methods detailed in the previous aspects. The first and second insert abutment surfaces and the insert actuator surface can be, in a bottom view of the cutting insert, in a triangular configuration. The first and second insert abutment surfaces can partially or along the entire length thereof, converge towards each other.

More precisely, the cutting insert can comprise opposing insert top and base surfaces which are connected by an insert peripheral surface, at least one cutting edge, and an insert anti-slip arrangement formed adjacent to the insert base surface; the insert anti-slip arrangement comprising first and second insert abutment surfaces which are non-parallel to each other and to the insert base surface, and an insert actuator surface having a blunt shape and lying in an insert actuator surface plane which is oriented transverse to the insert base surface; wherein pairs of closest points of the first and second insert abutment surfaces lie within respective common insert abutment surface planes which are parallel to the insert actuator surface plane, are a predetermined distance apart; and at least one of the predetermined distances has a greater magnitude than another predetermined distance which is associated with a pair of points further spaced from the insert actuator surface plane.

In accordance with a further aspect of the subject matter of the present application, there is provided a cutting insert comprising opposing insert top and base surfaces which are connected by an insert peripheral surface, opposing first and second cutting ends arranged along an insert longitudinal plane perpendicular to the insert top and base surfaces, a protuberance surrounded by the insert base surface and spaced apart from the insert peripheral surface, and first and second insert anti-slip arrangements formed on the protuberance, each insert anti-slip arrangement comprising: outwardly facing first and second insert abutment surfaces which are non-parallel to the insert base surface, and an outwardly facing insert actuator surface oriented transverse to the insert base surface, wherein: the first and second insert abutment surfaces of one insert anti-slip arrangement converge in a direction towards the insert actuator surface of the other anti-slip arrangement and also towards an associated cutting end.

In accordance with another aspect of the subject matter of the present application, there is provided a tool comprising first and second tool abutment surfaces which are non-parallel to each other and a tool actuator surface, which are configured for positioning of an insert in a tool. The tool can be configured for use in the tool assembly or application of the methods detailed in the previous aspects. The first and second tool abutment surfaces and the tool actuator surface can be, in a plan view thereof, in a triangular configuration. The first and second tool abutment surfaces can partially or along the entire length thereof, converge towards each other.

More precisely, the tool can have a cutting direction and can comprise an insert seating region comprising a tool base surface, tool inner and peripheral regions located on opposing sides of the insert seating region, the cutting direction being defined as extending from the tool inner region towards the tool peripheral region, and a tool anti-slip arrangement; the tool anti-slip arrangement comprising first and second tool abutment surfaces formed adjacent to the tool base surface and being non-parallel to each other and to the tool base surface, and a clamp located at the tool inner region and comprising a tool actuator surface lying in a tool actuator surface plane which is oriented transverse to the tool base surface; wherein pairs of closest points of the first and second tool abutment surfaces lie within respective common tool abutment surface planes which are parallel to the tool actuator surface plane, are a predetermined distance apart; at least one of the predetermined distances has a greater magnitude than another predetermined distance which is associated with a pair of points further spaced from the tool actuator surface plane; and the clamp is configured for force application in the cutting direction via the tool actuator surface.

In summary, the cutting insert or tool of the aspects above can comprise a base surface and an anti-slip arrangement. Each anti-slip arrangement can comprise an actuator surface and first and second abutment surfaces. The anti-slip arrangement of the tool can comprise a clamp. The cutting insert can be mounted on the cutting tool via engagement of the base surfaces thereof and the clamp can be operated to bias the actuator surfaces and first and second abutment surfaces against each other for preventing slippage of the cutting insert along the tool's base surface.

It is understood that the above-said is a summary, and that any of the aspects above may further comprise any of the features described in connection with any of the other aspects or described hereinbelow. For example, any of the following features may be applicable to any of the above-aspects of the present application:

-   i. Biasing of the tool actuator surface can be in the cutting     direction. The cutting direction can be defined as extending from     the tool inner region towards the tool peripheral region. -   ii. Biasing of the tool actuator surface can comprise moving at     least a portion of the clamp in a motion direction transverse to the     cutting direction. Moving the clamp can comprise moving the entire     clamp in a motion direction transverse to the cutting direction. -   iii. An internal direction angle formed between the cutting     direction and the motion direction can be an acute angle.     Preferably, the direction angle can be between 30° and 80°. -   iv. The cutting insert's at least one cutting edge can be formed at     an intersection of the insert top surface and the insert peripheral     surface. -   v. At least a portion of the insert top surface can be configured as     a rake surface and at least a portion of the insert peripheral     surface adjacent to the rake surface can be configured as a relief     surface. -   vi. The cutting insert can comprise a through hole opening out to     the top insert surface and another surface of the cutting insert. In     a bottom view of the cutting insert, the insert actuator surface can     be located on one side of the through hole and the first and second     insert abutment surfaces can be located on an opposing side of the     through hole. -   vii. In a bottom view of the cutting insert, each of the first and     second insert abutment surfaces and the insert actuator surface can     face outward from the insert. -   viii. Each pair of points of the first and second insert abutment     surfaces which are closer to the insert actuator surface plane than     another pair of points of the first and second insert abutment     surfaces located further from the insert actuator surface plane, can     have a predetermined distance of greater magnitude than the latter     pair of points. -   ix. In a bottom view of the cutting insert, the first and second     insert abutment surfaces can extend at an angle of less than 180° to     each other. -   x. In a bottom view of the cutting insert, the first and/or second     insert abutment surfaces extend in a straight line. -   xi. In a bottom view of the cutting insert, the first and second     insert abutment surfaces can extend at an acute insert abutment     angle to each other. -   xii. In a bottom view of the cutting insert, the first insert     abutment surface can be longer than the second insert abutment     surface. -   xiii. The first and second insert abutment surfaces and the insert     actuator surface can extend in a direction away from the insert top     surface. -   xiv. The insert actuator surface and/or the first and second insert     abutment surfaces of the cutting insert can be perpendicular to the     insert base surface or at least partially slanted in a     downward-outward direction. Such construction can be beneficial in     prevention of a tool actuator surface propelling the cutting insert     in a direction away from the tool base surface. -   xv. The first and second insert abutment surfaces can be formed on a     single protuberance. The insert actuator surface and the first and     second insert abutment surfaces can be formed on a single     protuberance. Every insert actuator surface and the first and second     insert abutment surfaces of the cutting insert can be formed on a     single protuberance. Every insert actuator surface and the first and     second insert abutment surfaces of the cutting insert can be     connected to form a periphery of, or enclose, a single protuberance. -   xvi. The bluntness of the insert actuator surface can be for     providing a consistent or controlled force application direction.     The insert actuator surface can have a curvature which does not     extend along, or is free of, portions which are tangential to     surfaces connected to the insert actuator surface. The insert     actuator surface can be convexly curved. The insert actuator surface     can have a curvature which is only apparent in a magnified view     (i.e. to the naked eye the insert actuator surface appears flat, yet     using any magnification means, a magnifying glass, etc., curvature     is viewable). -   xvii. In a bottom view of the cutting insert, the insert actuator     surface can follow a straight line. The blunt shape of the insert     actuator surface can be flat. -   xviii. The cutting insert can comprise an insert cutting plane which     extends perpendicular to the insert base surface and an insert     longitudinal plane, the insert longitudinal plane extending     longitudinally through the cutting insert and perpendicular to the     insert base surface. In a bottom view of the cutting insert, the     insert cutting plane can theoretically divide the cutting insert     into imaginary first and second insert halves. In a bottom view of     the cutting insert, the first and second insert abutment surfaces     can be at least partially located at the first insert half and the     insert actuator surface can be located at the second insert half. At     least a majority of the first insert abutment surface and/or the     second insert abutment surfaces can be located at the first insert     half. An entirety of the second insert abutment surface can be     located at the first insert half. An entirety of each of the first     and second insert abutment surfaces can be located at the first     insert half. -   xix. In a bottom view of the cutting insert, closest portions of the     first and second insert abutments surfaces can be closer to the     cutting edge than to the insert cutting plane. -   xx. In a bottom view of the cutting insert, the insert anti-slip     arrangement, or each insert anti-slip arrangement, can be asymmetric     about an insert longitudinal plane. -   xxi. The insert base surface can extend along the entire insert     peripheral surface. -   xxii. A first insert base width of the insert base surface which     extends from, and perpendicular to, the first insert abutment     surface (of each anti-slip arrangement), can be greater than a     second insert base width which extends from, and perpendicular to,     the second insert abutment surface (of each anti-slip arrangement). -   xxiii. The insert base surface can be flat. -   xxiv. The cutting insert can be indexable. The cutting insert can     comprise an additional, i.e. a second, insert anti-slip arrangement.     Such construction could be for a different indexed position. The     additional insert anti-slip arrangement can have any feature of the     first anti-slip arrangement. The additional insert anti-slip     arrangement can have the same features as the first anti-slip     arrangement. Each insert actuator surface of one of the insert     anti-slip arrangements can connect the first and second insert     abutments surfaces of the other insert anti-slip arrangement. -   xxv. The cutting insert can have 180° rotational symmetry around an     insert central axis extending perpendicular to, and through the     center of, the insert base surface. -   xxvi. The clamp's force application can be in a direction parallel     to the tool base surface. -   xxvii. The tool actuator surface can extend perpendicular to the     tool base surface. -   xxviii. The clamp and/or tool can be configured for linear motion of     the clamp. The linear motion of the clamp is in a direction     transverse to the cutting direction. The tool can be formed with a     track. The track can be a linear track within which the clamp is     permitted linear motion. The track can be bounded by an inner wall     of the tool. The track and the clamp can be configured for     continuous contact of the inner wall and clamp at each position     thereof. -   xxix. The clamp can have a clamp wall surface which forms an     internal acute clamp angle α with the tool actuator surface. The     clamp angle α can fulfill the condition 30°<α<80°. -   xxx. In a clamped position, the clamp can have a clamp wall surface     which contacts an inner wall of the tool. -   xxxi. In a plan view of the tool, each of the first and second     insert abutment surfaces and the insert actuator surface can face     inwardly. -   xxxii. Each pair of points of the first and second tool abutment     surfaces which are closer to the tool actuator surface plane than     another pair of points, can have a predetermined distance of greater     magnitude than the latter pair of points. In a plan view of the     insert seating region, the first and second tool abutment surfaces     can extend at an angle of less than 180° to each other. -   xxxiii. In a plan view of the insert seating region, the first     and/or second tool abutment surfaces can extend in a straight line. -   xxxiv. In a plan view of the insert seating region, the first and     second tool abutment surfaces extend at an acute angle to each     other. -   xxxv. In a plan view of the insert seating region, the first tool     abutment surface can be longer than the second tool abutment     surface. -   xxxvi. The first and second tool abutment surfaces and the tool     actuator surface can be recessed into the insert seating region. -   xxxvii. The tool actuator surface and/or the first and second tool     abutment surfaces of the tool can be perpendicular to the tool base     surface or at least partially slanted in an upward-inward direction. -   xxxviii. The first and second tool abutment surfaces can be formed     in a single tool recess. -   xxxix. The tool actuator surface and the first and second tool     abutment surfaces can be portions of a single continuous shape. -   xl. The tool actuator surface can have a blunt shape. The bluntness     of the tool actuator surface can be for providing a consistent or     controlled force application direction. The tool actuator surface     can have a curvature which does not extend along, or is free of,     portions which are tangential to surfaces connected thereto. The     tool actuator surface can be convexly curved. The tool actuator     surface can have a curvature which is only apparent in a magnified     view. -   xli. In a plan view of the insert seating region, the tool actuator     surface can follow a straight line. The blunt shape of the tool     actuator surface can be flat. -   xlii. The tool base surface can extend along the entire insert     seating region except for a portion completed by the clamp. -   xliii. A first tool base width of the tool base surface which     extends from, and perpendicular to, the first tool abutment surface,     can be greater than a second tool base width which extends from, and     perpendicular to, the second tool abutment surface. -   xliv. The tool base surface can be flat. -   xlv. The tool anti-slip arrangement and the insert anti-slip     arrangement can be configured to prevent motion of the cutting     insert in a plane parallel with the tool base surface. -   xlvi. The tool anti-slip arrangement and the insert anti-slip     arrangement can be configured to prevent motion of the cutting     insert only in a plane parallel with the tool base surface. -   xlvii. The tool can be additionally configured to apply a clamping     force or otherwise prevent disengagement of the cutting insert's     base surface from the tool base surface. For example, the tool can     comprise a biasing arrangement configured to bias the insert base     surface against the tool base surface. -   xlviii. The biasing arrangement can be configured to allow slippage     of the cutting insert along the tool base surface. The slippage     allowed can be visible slippage. -   xlix. The cutting insert and/or the tool can be configured so that     the only surfaces of the tool which contact a periphery of the     cutting insert are the tool actuator surface and the first and     second tool abutment surfaces. -   l. The cutting insert and/or the tool can be configured so that the     only surfaces of the tool which contact the cutting insert are the     tool actuator surface, the tool base surface and the first and     second tool abutment surfaces. -   li. The tool actuator surface and the insert actuator surface can be     both blunt. Preferably, exactly one of the two actuator surfaces can     be flat. -   lii. The first and second tool abutment surfaces can be integrally     formed with the tool. -   liii. The first and second insert abutment surfaces can be     integrally formed with the cutting insert. -   liv. The insert seating region can be formed with an insert pocket     comprising at least two walls. -   lv. Clamping of the cutting insert to the tool can comprise sliding     motion of the cutting insert's insert base surface along the tool     base surface. -   lvi. The insert anti-slip arrangement can be spaced apart from or     separate from the insert peripheral surface.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a better understanding of the subject matter of the present application, and to show how the same may be carried out in practice, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a tool assembly;

FIG. 1B is a plan view of the tool assembly in FIG. 1;

FIG. 1C is a side view of the tool assembly in FIGS. 1 and 2;

FIG. 1D is an exploded view of the tool assembly in FIGS. 1 to 3;

FIG. 2 is a plan view of a tool of the tool assembly in FIGS. 1A to 1D;

FIG. 3A is a side view of the cutting insert in FIGS. 1A to 1D;

FIG. 3B is a bottom perspective view of a cutting insert in FIG. 3A;

FIG. 3C is a bottom view of the cutting insert in FIGS. 3A and 3B;

FIG. 3D is an enlarged bottom view of the cutting insert in FIGS. 3A to 3D;

FIG. 3E is a schematic view of an abutment surface, a non-abutment surface and connecting surfaces thereto;

FIG. 4A is a top perspective view of a clamp in FIGS. 1A to 1D;

FIG. 4B is a side view of the clamp in FIG. 4A;

FIG. 4C is a perspective side view of the clamp in FIGS. 4A and 4B;

FIG. 4D is a plan view of the clamp in FIGS. 4A to 4C;

FIG. 5A is a plan view of a tool, including a screw and clamp thereof, in FIGS. 1A to 1D;

FIG. 5B is an enlarged view of a portion of the tool, screw and clamp in FIG. 5A; and

FIG. 5C is an enlarged view of a portion of the tool, screw and clamp in FIG. 5A, with the clamp located in a different position to FIGS. 5A and 5B.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

An example of the subject matter of the present example is described as follows.

Referring to FIGS. 1A to 1D, which illustrate a tool assembly 10 comprising a tool 12 and at least one cutting insert 14 clamped thereto. For simplification purposes, the tool exemplified is a milling tool-head, however any tool-head or tool including a shaft or body, etc., could also be defined as a tool for the purposes of the specification and claims, provided that such component comprises an insert seating region configured for clamping of a cutting insert thereto.

The tool assembly 10, in this non-limiting example, is configured to mill a workpiece (not shown) by rotating about a tool axis A_(T) in a rotation direction D_(R), which in this non-limiting example can be counterclockwise.

Referring also to FIG. 2, the tool 12 can comprise an insert seating region 16 comprising a tool base surface 18, tool inner and peripheral regions 20, 22 located on opposing sides of the insert seating region 16, and a tool anti-slip arrangement 24.

More precisely, the tool anti-slip arrangement 24 can comprise first and second tool abutment surfaces 26A, 26B formed adjacent to the tool base surface 18, and a clamp 28 comprising a tool actuator surface 30.

The clamp 28 can be located at the tool inner region 20. The tool actuator surface 30 can be oriented transverse to the tool base surface 18.

Referring now also to FIGS. 3A to 3C, the cutting insert 14 can comprise opposing insert top and base surfaces 32, 34 which are connected by an insert peripheral surface 36, at least one cutting edge 38, and an insert anti-slip arrangement 40 formed adjacent to the insert base surface 34.

The insert anti-slip arrangement 40 can comprise first and second insert abutment surfaces 42A, 42B and an insert actuator surface 44 which is oriented transverse to the insert base surface 34. Thus, the periphery of the cutting insert 14 may be considered to include not only the insert peripheral surface 36, but also the insert actuator surface 44 and first and second insert abutment surfaces 42A, 42B, which are oriented transverse to the insert base surface 34.

The first and second tool abutment surfaces 26A, 26B and first and second insert abutment surfaces 42A, 42B are configured for engaging each other. As best shown in FIGS. 2 and 3C, the abutment surfaces 26A, 26B, 42A, 42B can have corresponding shapes (in this example following straight lines) and orientations and can extend at a cutting insert abutment or tool abutment angle γ_(CA), γ_(TA) of less than 180° to each other. In this non-limiting example, each pair of abutment surfaces can respectively form a wedge-shaped arrangement.

To clamp the cutting insert 14 to the tool 12, the cutting insert 14 is mounted on the tool 12 in a position in which the insert base surface 34 contacts the tool base surface 18. Stated differently, the cutting insert 14 can be seated on the tool 12, via the tool and insert base surfaces 18, 34 thereof. Subsequently, the clamp's tool actuator surface 30 can be biased against the insert actuator surface 44 resulting in the first and second insert abutment surfaces 42A, 42B being respectively biased against the first and second tool abutment surfaces 26A, 26B.

It will be understood that such clamping can be advantageous for preventing slippage of a cutting insert along a tool base surface since a cutting insert can be simultaneously clamped on three surfaces thereof, namely an insert actuator surface, and first and second insert abutment surfaces thereof. It will be understood that in cases of non-parallel abutment surfaces, simultaneous three-point contact can be achieved, the three points (or three surfaces) being located in a non-linear arrangement and hence can constitute a triangular arrangement. In particular, such arrangement of the abutment surfaces and actuator surfaces is suitable for preventing translation and rotation, of a cutting insert relative to a tool, along a base plane P_(B) (FIGS. 1B and 2) which is parallel with the tool base surface 18 and insert base surface 34.

A further advantage may be possibly achieved by biasing the tool actuator surface 30 in a cutting direction D_(C) (FIG. 2). It will be understood that a tendency of cutting insert 14 to slide or be moved out of a desired position, can be greatest at an active first cutting end 46 thereof (FIG. 1C) when it is in contact with a workpiece (not shown). By securing the active first cutting end 46 of the cutting insert, through applying clamping force outward from the tool, maintenance of a precise location of the cutting insert or active first cutting end 46 is achievable.

The cutting direction D_(C) can be defined as extending from the tool inner region 20 towards the tool peripheral region 22. More precisely, a cutting insert is normally mounted at a peripheral part of a tool, and normally protrudes from the tool to ensure that only the cutting insert, and not the tool contacts a workpiece (not shown). Therefore, such tool peripheral region 22 can be considered as comprising a peripheral edge 48 (FIG. 1D) surrounding a protruding cutting edge 38 of the cutting insert 14, when mounted to the tool 12, or, when the cutting insert 14 is not mounted to the tool 12, the tool peripheral region 22 can be considered as a peripheral edge 48 surrounding the insert seating region 16. Stated alternatively, i.e. in relation to the cutting insert 14, the cutting direction can be considered to extend from a non-cutting end 50 thereof (FIG. 1C) in towards an active first cutting end 46 thereof.

It is noted that the cutting insert 14 and/or the tool 12 can be configured so that the only surfaces of the tool 12 which contact a periphery of the cutting insert 14 are the tool actuator surface 30 and the first and second tool abutment surfaces 26A, 26B. Stated differently, surfaces of the tool which extend upwardly from the tool 12, or, surfaces adjacent the insert peripheral surface 36, such as tool wall surfaces 52A, 52B (FIGS. 1C and 2), are spaced-apart from the cutting insert 14. As such tool wall surfaces do not contact the insert peripheral surface 36, which in this example forms, at an intersection with the top surface 32, the cutting edge 38. The tool 12 can be suitable to hold cutting inserts of different shapes. Stated differently yet, the above-construction can configure a tool for holding different shaped cutting inserts (albeit which have a correspondingly shaped anti-slip arrangement). Accordingly it can be an advantageous for a cutting insert or tool to have spaced-apart anti-slip arrangements and cutting edges or tool wall surfaces, respectively.

Further, more specific exemplary features will now be described.

The cutting edge 38 in this example here extends along the entire intersection of the insert top surface 32 and insert peripheral surface 36. However, in the mounted position shown in FIG. 1C, the active first cutting end 46, in this non-limiting example, comprises only a portion of the edge including first and second lateral cutting edge portions 54A, 54B and an end cutting edge portion 54C extending therebetween.

The insert top surface 32, at least a portion thereof adjacent to the active first cutting end 46, can be configured as a rake surface over which chips (not shown) pass, and at least a portion of the insert peripheral surface 36 adjacent thereto can be configured as a relief surface.

Drawing attention to FIG. 3C, the cutting insert 14 can comprise an insert cutting plane P_(IC) which extends perpendicular to the insert base surface 34 and an insert longitudinal plane P. The insert longitudinal plane P_(IL) extends longitudinally through the cutting insert 14, connects opposing first and second cutting ends 46, 46′ and is perpendicular to the insert base surface 34. The insert cutting plane P_(IC) theoretically divides the cutting insert 14 into imaginary first and second insert halves 56A, 56B. As shown, the first and second insert abutment surfaces 42A, 42B can be at least partially located at the first insert half 56A and the insert actuator surface 44 can be located at the second insert half 56B. In the present non-limiting example an entirety of the second abutment surface 42A is located at the first insert half 56A.

It will be understood that the insert actuator surface 44 and/or tool actuator surface 30 can be more suitable for stable engagement if at least one, and preferably both, of the two has a blunt shape.

At least when viewing FIG. 3D, i.e. in a non-magnified view, it can be noticed that the insert actuator surface 44 appears flat and hence can lie in an insert actuator plane P_(IA).

The insert actuator plane P_(IA) can be oriented transverse to the insert base surface 34, that the insert actuator surface can extend in a direction away from the insert top surface 32, and that the insert actuator surface can follow a straight line.

When the clamp 28 is mounted to the tool 12, the tool actuator surface 30 can extend perpendicular to the tool base surface 18.

The first and second insert abutment surfaces 42A, 42B and the insert actuator surface 44 constitute a first set of engagement surfaces which are associated with the first cutting end 46.

Referring to FIG. 3E, the insert actuator surface 44 of this first set can extend between two other surfaces, which in the present example (showing an indexable insert) can be additional first and second insert abutment surfaces 42A′, 42B′ belonging to a second, additional set of engagement surfaces and are associated with the second cutting end 46′. The additional first and second insert abutment surfaces 42A′, 42B′can comprise end points 58A, 58B which can be connection points with the insert actuator surface 44.

It has been found that when using a blunt actuator surface (i.e. the insert actuator surface 44 and/or the tool actuator surface 30), there can be an advantageous effect of achieving a consistent or controlled force application direction. In other words, a cutting insert can be directed in a precise direction to best achieve a precise, stable mounting arrangement. It will be understood that an actuator surface which is not blunt (i.e. having a small radius of curvature, such as shown by the imaginary line designated by the numeral 60 in FIG. 3E, or a V-shape in a plan view) is likely to be more prone to allowing an applied force to be directed in inconsistent or uncontrolled directions, especially during application of cutting forces on a cutting insert or associated tool.

Notably, the example shown in FIG. 3D, while appearing flat/straight in a plan view from afar, would be shown to have a slight convex curvature if magnified. This is because, surprisingly, it has been found that the most preferred configuration is a very slightly curved, preferably convexly-curved, (e.g. as schematically exemplified in FIG. 3E) insert actuator surface (or, alternatively, a very slightly convexly-curved tool actuator surface), which can allow precise, consistent contact on a single point thereof. It has also been found that the most preferable configuration is one in which the alternate actuator surface (i.e. the actuator surface which is not convexly-curved, in this case the tool actuator surface 30) is flat (i.e. without curvature).

To elaborate, a blunt actuator surface, in this example being the insert actuator surface 44, can be more precisely defined as having a curvature which does not extend along, or is free of, portions which are tangential to the additional first and second insert abutment surfaces 42A′, 42B′ (or other surfaces connected to the insert actuator surface 44).

Referring only to FIG. 3E, to elaborate further, and for the purpose of comparison only, the imaginary surface 60 is shown which has a smaller radius of curvature than the exemplified, and exaggeratedly curved for the purpose of understanding, insert actuator surface 44. The imaginary surface 60 has portions 61A, 61B between end points 58A, 58B and a middle section thereof, which are tangential to imaginary tangent lines 62A, 62B. The imaginary surface 60 is not considered blunt due to the small radius of curvature thereof. Rather, an actuator surface having a greater curvature, or being flat, and approaching a straight reference line L_(R) which extends between the end points 58A, 58B is considered blunt. It is reiterated that the insert actuator surface 44 in FIG. 3E is exaggeratedly curved and a more realistic view thereof is shown in FIG. 3D. In summary, it is preferable that at least one of the actuator surfaces 30, 44 of the tool assembly 10 approach or tend towards being flat, without being perfectly flat. It is also preferable, yet not essential, that the alternate actuator surface 30, 44 be flat. Regarding the tendency to flatness, the actuator surface 30, 44 should be flatter than an imaginary surface 60 having a curvature extending along tangent lines. Preferably, such actuator surface 30, 44 should be far flatter than such imaginary surface 60. For example, if an outermost point 61C of the imaginary surface 60 extends a first distance D₁ perpendicular to the straight reference line L_(R), the outermost point 44A of the actuator surface 44 should preferably extend a second distance D₂ which is 25% of, or less than, the first distance D₁, and, even more preferably, 10% of, or less than, the first distance D₁.

While not shown, it will be understood that an actuator surface may still be considered blunt in a case where there is a mere intermediary change of radius at the end points 58A, 58B. This is because the purpose of the bluntness is most relevant at the outermost point 44A, or contact point, or, least a central portion of the actuator surface 44, which is configured to engage another associated actuator surface.

Referring to FIG. 3D the first and second insert abutment surfaces 42A, 42B and the insert actuator surface 44 face outward from the cutting insert 14 (exemplified by outwardly directed arrows designated 62A, 62B and 62C).

As best shown in FIG. 3A, the first and second insert abutment surfaces 42A, 42B and the insert actuator surface 44 can extend in a direction away from the insert top surface 32 (exemplified by a downwardly directed arrow designated as 64).

Referring now to FIG. 3B, in the non-limiting example shown, all of the first and second insert abutment surfaces 42A, 42B, and the insert actuator surface 44 are formed on a single protuberance 70 which has a non-contacting lower protuberance surface 71 (FIG. 3B). The insert actuator surface 44 and the first and second insert abutment surfaces 42A, 42B can be formed on a single protuberance 70 which itself may be formed in a central area of the insert base surface 34 and spaced apart on all sides from the insert peripheral surface 36 by the insert base surface 34.

The exemplary cutting insert 14 shown is indexable, and can have 180° rotational symmetry around an insert central axis A_(IC) (FIG. 3D) extending perpendicular to, and through the center of, the insert base surface 34. Accordingly, the cutting insert 14 can be configured with a second insert anti-slip arrangement 40′. The second insert anti-slip arrangement 40′ can comprise the additional first and second insert abutment surfaces 42A′, 42B′ mentioned above, and an additional insert actuator surface 44′.

As shown, the surfaces 42A, 42B, 44, 42A′, 42B′, 44′ of the first and second insert anti-slip arrangements 40, 40′ form all sides of or enclose the single protuberance 70. Thus, the single protuberance 70 of the non-limiting example cutting insert 14 shown, can be considered to have two sets of engagement surfaces, a first set including surfaces 42A, 42B and 44 and a second set including surfaces 42A′, 42B′ and 44′.

Referring now to the surfaces of the tool anti-slip arrangement 24, as shown in FIG. 2, it will be understood that they can have corresponding features to the insert anti-slip arrangement 40, mutatis mutandis.

Additionally, the first and second tool abutment surfaces 26A, 26B and the tool actuator surface 30 can face inwardly (i.e., toward the center of the insert seating region 16, as exemplified by inwardly directed arrows designated 72A, 72B and 72C).

The first and second tool abutment surfaces 26A, 26B and the tool actuator surface 30 can be recessed into the insert seating region 16. Stated differently, the first and second tool abutment surfaces 26A, 26B and the tool actuator surface 30 can be side surfaces of a recess 74 formed in the insert seating region 16.

While the exemplary tool actuator surface 30 and the first and second tool abutment surfaces 26A, 26B shown are perpendicular to the tool base surface 18, they could also be at least partially slanted in a upward-inward direction (for example, as shown in FIG. 4B, the tool actuator surface 30 could be slanted in the upward-inward direction shown by the arrow designated as 76. Similarly, while the exemplary insert actuator surface 44 and the first and second insert abutment surfaces 42A, 42B shown are perpendicular to the insert base surface 34, they could also be at least partially slanted in a downward-outward direction (for example the insert actuator surface 44 could be slanted in the downward-outward direction shown by the arrow designated as 66; for comparison, the arrow designated as 68 is directed a downward-inward direction).

Referring to FIG. 3D, it will be understood that there can be insert abutment surface planes, for example first and second insert abutment surface planes P₁, P₂, each of which are parallel to the insert actuator surface plane P_(IA). It is noted that the first insert abutment surface plane P₁ is closer to the insert actuator surface plane P_(IA) and that a pair of points 78A, 78B of the first and second insert abutment surfaces 42A, 42B which lie on the first insert abutment surface plane P₁ are spaced apart from each other a greater magnitude of distance than a pair of points 80A, 80B which lie on the second insert abutment surface plane P₂. Thus, again with reference to FIG. 3D, the first and second insert abutment surfaces 42A, 42B belonging to the first set of engagement surfaces converge in a direction toward the additional insert actuator surface 44′ belonging to the second set of engagement surfaces and also toward the associated first cutting end 46. Similarly, the additional first and second insert abutment surfaces 42A′, 42B′ belonging to the second set of engagement surfaces converge in a direction toward the insert actuator surface 44 belonging to the first set of engagement surfaces and also toward the associated second cutting end 46′.

The construction above can also be possible for the tool anti-slip arrangement 24, mutatis mutandis (For example see FIG. 5A, wherein the tool actuator surface plane P_(TA) corresponds to the insert actuator surface plane P_(IA); first and second tool abutment surface planes P₃ and P₄ correspond to first and second insert abutment surface planes P₁, P₂; points 78C, 78D correspond to points 78A, 78B; and points 80C, 80D correspond to points 80A, 80B). Accordingly, tool abutment surfaces 26A, 26B converge as they tend toward the tool peripheral region 22

Referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B, the protuberance 70 on which the insert first and second abutment surfaces 42A, 42B are formed can be entirely spaced apart from the insert peripheral surface 36. Stated differently, the insert base surface 34 can extend continuously along the entire insert peripheral surface 36 and can completely surround the insert first and second abutment surfaces 42A, 42B and the insert actuator surface 44. The base surface 34 can be flat.

It will be understood that any of the above features, e.g. a continuous insert base surface 34, a base surface which extends along a periphery of a cutting insert, a flat base surface, etc., can provide stable mounting of a cutting insert on a tool.

Any of the above constructional features can also be possible for the tool base surface 18, mutatis mutandis. However, the tool base surface can, for example, extend along the entire insert peripheral surface except for a portion completed by the clamp 28.

Referring to FIGS. 1D and 2, a first portion 80 of the tool base surface 18 adjacent to the first tool abutment surface 26A has less material thereunder than a second portion 82 of the tool base surface 18 which is closer to the tool axis A_(T) (FIG. 1C). In such cases, it has been found that forming the first portion 80 of the tool base surface 18 to be larger than the second portion 82 of the tool base surface 18 can possibly provide advantageous constructional strength, especially in such cylindrical tools.

Such enlargement can be achieved by widening the first portion 80. For example, a first tool base width W_(T1) of the first portion 80 of the tool base surface 18 which extends from, and perpendicular to, the first tool abutment surface 26A, can be greater than a second tool base width W_(T2) which extends from, and perpendicular to, the second tool abutment surface 26B.

The insert base surface 34 can be configured to correspond to the tool base surface 18. For example, referring to FIG. 3D, a first insert base width W_(I1) of the insert base surface 34 which extends from, and perpendicular to, the first insert abutment surface 42A, can be greater than a second insert base width W_(I2) which extends from, and perpendicular to, the second insert abutment surface 42B.

While it will be understood that a cutting insert can be clamped to a tool in various ways, the following is an exemplary clamping arrangement.

The tool and insert base surfaces 18, 34 can be clamped against each other by a biasing arrangement 84 (FIG. 1D). This biasing arrangement 84 or a different one, can, in any case, be configured to prevent movement of a cutting insert in a direction away from a tool base surface.

The biasing arrangement 84 can comprise a biasing arrangement screw 86 configured to extend through a through hole 88 of the cutting insert 14, and a threaded bore 90 formed in the tool 12 to which the biasing arrangement screw 86 is securable.

Drawing attention to FIGS. 1D, and 4A to 4D, the clamp 28 can be configured to receive a clamp screw 97 via a clamp bore 95 (FIG. 4D) formed in the clamp 28.

More precisely, the clamp 28 can comprise a slanted clamp surface 92 located between the tool actuator surface 30 and the clamp bore which is comprised to be abutted by the clamp screw 97.

While a clamp could conceivably comprise a bendable portion which could cause a change of position, or orientation, of a tool actuator surface, the non-limiting example shown is one where the entire clamp 28 is movable upon engagement by the clamp screw 97.

It will be understood that the biasing arrangement 84, or a different arrangement, can be configured to allow slippage of the cutting insert 14 along the tool base surface 18, as the biasing arrangement screw 86 will normally allow limited slippage along the base plane P_(B).

Consequently, clamping of the cutting insert 14 to the tool 12 can comprise sliding motion of the cutting insert's insert base surface 34 along the tool base surface 18.

It has been found that wedging at least a portion of a clamp between an insert and a tool wall can provide a stable clamping arrangement.

For example, referring to FIGS. 5A to 5C, the clamp 28 can be moved a motion direction D_(M) which is transverse to the cutting direction D_(C). FIG. 5B shows a first position wherein there is a gap 98 between the tool actuator surface 30 and insert actuator surface 44, and FIG. 5C shows contact of the tool actuator surface 30 and insert actuator surface 44.

As shown best in FIG. 2, the tool 12 can be formed with a track 94 bounded by an inner wall 96. Said wedging can occur between the insert actuator surface 44 and the inner wall 96.

An internal direction angle A_(D) formed between the cutting direction D_(C) and the motion direction D_(M) can be an acute angle. Preferably, the direction angle A_(D) can be between 30° and 80°.

Referring to FIG. 4D, an internal clamp angle α of a clamp wall surface 100 with the tool actuator surface 30 (or at least extensions thereof) can be an acute. The clamp angle α can fulfill the condition 30°<α<80°.

The description above includes one or more exemplary embodiments and details for enablement, if needed, of claimed subject matter, and does not exclude non-exemplified embodiments and details from the claim scope of the present application. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A cutting insert comprising opposing insert top and base surfaces which are connected by an insert peripheral surface, at least one cutting edge, and an insert anti-slip arrangement formed adjacent to the insert base surface; the insert anti-slip arrangement comprising first and second insert abutment surfaces which are non-parallel to each other and to the insert base surface, and an insert actuator surface having a blunt shape and lying in an insert actuator surface plane which is oriented transverse to the insert base surface; wherein pairs of closest points of the first and second insert abutment surfaces lie within respective common insert abutment surface planes which are parallel to the insert actuator surface plane, are a predetermined distance apart; and at least one of the predetermined distances has a greater magnitude than another predetermined distance which is associated with a pair of points further spaced from the insert actuator surface plane.
 2. The cutting insert according to claim 1, wherein, in a bottom view of the cutting insert, each of the first and second insert abutment surfaces and the insert actuator surface face outward from the insert.
 3. The cutting insert according to claim 1, wherein each pair of points of the first and second insert abutment surfaces which are closer to the insert actuator surface plane than another pair of points, have a predetermined distance of greater magnitude than the latter pair of points.
 4. The cutting insert according to claim 1, wherein, in a bottom view of the cutting insert, the first and second insert abutment surfaces extend at an acute angle to each other.
 5. The cutting insert according to claim 1, wherein the first and second insert abutment surfaces and the insert actuator surface extend in a direction away from the insert top surface.
 6. The cutting insert according to claim 1, wherein the insert actuator surface and/or the first and second insert abutment surfaces of the cutting insert are perpendicular to the insert base surface or are at least partially slanted in a downward-outward direction.
 7. The cutting insert according to claim 1, wherein the insert actuator surface and the first and second insert abutment surfaces are formed on a single protuberance.
 8. The cutting insert according to claim 1, wherein the insert actuator surface has a curvature which is only apparent in a magnified view
 9. The cutting insert according to claim 1, further comprising an insert cutting plane which extends perpendicular to the insert base surface and an insert longitudinal plane, the insert longitudinal plane extending longitudinally through the cutting insert and perpendicular to the insert base surface; wherein, in a bottom view of the cutting insert, the insert cutting plane theoretically divides the cutting insert into imaginary first and second insert halves; wherein, in a bottom view of the cutting insert, the first and second insert abutment surfaces are at least partially located at the first insert half and the insert actuator surface is located at the second insert half.
 10. The cutting insert according to claim 1, wherein, in a bottom view of the cutting insert, the insert anti-slip arrangement is asymmetric about an insert longitudinal plane.
 11. The cutting insert according to claim 1, wherein the insert base surface extends along the entire insert peripheral surface.
 12. The cutting insert according to claim 1, wherein a first insert base width of the insert base surface which extends from, and perpendicular to, the first insert abutment surface, can be greater than a second insert base width which extends from, and perpendicular to, the second insert abutment surface.
 13. The cutting insert according to claim 1, further comprising an additional insert anti-slip arrangement.
 14. A tool having a cutting direction and comprising: an insert seating region comprising a tool base surface, tool inner and peripheral regions located on opposing sides of the insert seating region, the cutting direction being defined as extending from the tool inner region towards the tool peripheral region, and a tool anti-slip arrangement; the tool anti-slip arrangement comprising first and second tool abutment surfaces formed adjacent to the tool base surface and being non-parallel to each other and to the tool base surface, and a clamp located at the tool inner region and comprising a tool actuator surface lying in a tool actuator surface plane which is oriented transverse to the tool base surface; wherein pairs of closest points of the first and second tool abutment surfaces lie within respective common tool abutment surface planes which are parallel to the tool actuator surface plane, are a predetermined distance apart; at least one of the predetermined distances has a greater magnitude than another predetermined distance which is associated with a pair of points further spaced from the tool actuator surface plane; and the clamp is configured for force application in the cutting direction via the tool actuator surface.
 15. The tool according to claim 14, wherein the tool actuator surface has a blunt shape.
 16. The tool according to claim 14, wherein the force application is in a direction parallel to the tool base surface.
 17. The tool according to claim 14, wherein the clamp and/or tool is configured for linear motion of the clamp.
 18. The tool according to claim 17, wherein the linear motion of the clamp is in a direction transverse to the cutting direction.
 19. The tool according to claim 14, wherein the tool is formed with a track which is bounded by an inner wall of the tool, the track and clamp being configured for continuous contact of the inner wall and clamp at each position thereof.
 20. The tool according to claim 14, wherein each pairs of points of the first and second tool abutment surfaces which are closer to the tool actuator surface plane than another pair of points of the first and second tool abutment surfaces, have a predetermined distance of greater magnitude than the latter pair of points.
 21. The tool according to claim 14, wherein the first and second tool abutment surfaces and the tool actuator surface are recessed into the insert seating region.
 22. The tool according to claim 14, wherein the first and second tool abutment surfaces are formed in a single tool recess.
 23. The tool according to claim 14, wherein a first tool base width of the tool base surface which extends from, and perpendicular to, the first tool abutment surface, can be greater than a second tool base width which extends from, and perpendicular to, the second tool abutment surface.
 24. A tool assembly comprising in combination a tool configured for cutting in a cutting direction and a cutting insert mounted to the tool: the tool comprising an insert seating region comprising a tool base surface, tool inner and peripheral regions located on opposing sides of the insert seating region, the cutting direction being defined as extending from the tool inner region towards the tool peripheral region, and a tool anti-slip arrangement; the tool anti-slip arrangement comprising first and second tool abutment surfaces formed adjacent to the tool base surface and being non-parallel to each other and to the tool base surface, and a clamp located at the tool inner region and comprising a tool actuator surface which is oriented transverse to the insert base surface; the cutting insert comprising opposing insert top and base surfaces which are connected by an insert peripheral surface, at least one cutting edge, and an insert anti-slip arrangement formed adjacent to the insert base surface the insert anti-slip arrangement comprising first and second insert abutment surfaces which are non-parallel to each other and to the insert base surface, and an insert actuator surface which is oriented transverse to the insert base surface; wherein: the cutting insert and the tool are configured for a position in which the insert base surface contacts the tool base surface; and the clamp is configured to bias the tool actuator surface against the insert actuator surface which consequently biases the first and second insert abutment surfaces against the first and second tool abutment surfaces for preventing slippage of the cutting insert along the tool base surface.
 25. The tool assembly according to claim 24, wherein the tool anti-slip arrangement and the insert anti-slip arrangement are configured to prevent motion of the cutting insert in a plane parallel with the tool base surface.
 26. The tool assembly according to claim 24, wherein the tool further comprises a biasing arrangement configured to bias the insert base surface against the tool base surface and the biasing arrangement is configured to allow slippage of the cutting insert along the tool base surface.
 27. The tool assembly according claim 24, wherein the only surfaces of the tool which contact a periphery of the cutting insert are the tool actuator surface and the first and second tool abutment surfaces.
 28. The tool assembly according to claim 24, wherein the only surfaces of the tool which contact the cutting insert are the tool actuator surface, the tool base surface and the first and second tool abutment surfaces.
 29. The tool assembly according to claim 24, wherein: pairs of closest points of the first and second tool abutment surfaces lie within respective common tool abutment surface planes which are parallel to a tool actuator surface plane, are a predetermined distance apart; at least one of the predetermined distances has a greater magnitude than another predetermined distance which is associated with a pair of points further spaced from the tool actuator surface plane; and pairs of closest points of the first and second insert abutment surfaces lie within respective common insert abutment surface planes which are parallel to an insert actuator surface plane, are a predetermined distance apart; and at least one of the predetermined distances has a greater magnitude than another predetermined distance which is associated with a pair of points further spaced from the insert actuator surface plane.
 30. The tool assembly according to claim 24, wherein the tool actuator surface and the insert actuator surface are both blunt.
 31. The tool assembly according to claim 30, wherein one of the tool actuator surface and the insert actuator surfaces is flat, and the other is curved.
 32. A method of clamping a cutting insert to a tool: the tool comprising an insert seating region comprising a tool base surface, tool inner and peripheral regions located on opposing sides of the insert seating region, and a tool anti-slip arrangement; the tool anti-slip arrangement comprising first and second tool abutment surfaces formed adjacent to the tool base surface and being non-parallel to each other and to the tool base surface, and a clamp located at the tool inner region and comprising a tool actuator surface which is oriented transverse to the tool base surface; the cutting insert comprising opposing insert top and base surfaces which are connected by an insert peripheral surface, at least one cutting edge, and an insert anti-slip arrangement formed adjacent to the insert base surface; the insert anti-slip arrangement comprising first and second insert abutment surfaces which are non-parallel to each other and to the insert base surface, and an insert actuator surface which is oriented transverse to the insert base surface; wherein the method comprises: a. mounting the cutting insert on the tool in a position in which the insert base surface contacts the tool base surface; and b. biasing the clamp's tool actuator surface against the insert actuator surface, thereby biasing the first and second insert abutment surfaces respectively against the first and second tool abutment surfaces for preventing slippage of the cutting insert along the tool base surface.
 33. The method of clamping according to claim 32, wherein said biasing is in a cutting direction defined as extending from the tool inner region towards the tool peripheral region. 